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Showing posts with label Asthma. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Asthma. Show all posts

Monday, December 17, 2007

What is a nebuliser?

A nebuliser works by turning the medicine into a fine mist, which is inhaled through a mask or mouthpiece. Nebulisers are used for giving higher doses of medication at times when breathing becomes extremely difficult.

What is a spacer?

A spacer is a device which makes it even easier to use metered dose (measured) inhalers and reduces the chances of side effects. It is also used in young children along with a face-mask. Cipla Medpro is the manufacturer of the first and only non-metal antistatic spacer called the Zerostat Spacer. (an antistatic spacer allows for better deposition of the drug into the lower airways where it is needed to combat inflammation)

Are inhalers an effective way of taking my asthma medicine?

Yes. Inhalers give you quick relief while using the minimum amount of medicine. This is because the medicine is delivered straight to your lungs, where it acts at once. Inhalers also reduce the chance of side effects due to the small dosage and the minimal absorption into the rest of the system.

In how many ways can asthma medicines be taken?

Asthma medicines can be taken in any of the following ways.Your healthcare proffesional should decide which will work best for you.
  • Nebulisers
  • Inhalers
  • Tablets
  • Syrups
  • Injections
  • What should I expect from my asthma treatment?

     With regular, long-term treatment, you can achieve the following goals:
    • A complete absence of asthma symptoms, or only minor symptoms during the day.
    • Peaceful sleep at night, without any symptoms.
    • No need to miss work, studies or other activities due to asthma.
    • No emergency visits or stays in the hospital.
    • Being able to participate fully in physical activities.
    • Extremely few, if any, side effects from your asthma medicines.

    If I have asthma will my children also get it?

    The tendency to get asthma does run in families. However, this does not mean that if you have asthma, your children will necessarily get it.

    How can you control asthma?

    By avoiding triggers (pollen, smoking, dust etc), visiting your doctor regularly, taking your asthma medicines (as directed) without fail, leading an active life and keeping a close watch on your asthma symptoms

    Can asthma be cured?


    Asthma cannot be cured but it can be controlled. Getting your asthma under control means that you are able to lead a normal life without having any symptoms of asthma.

    What are the main symptoms of asthma?

    Coughing, wheezing - a whistling sound when you breathe, tightness in the chest, shortness of breath. The symptoms vary from person to person and from time to time within the same person. Some people have all the symptoms, while others may have only a cough or wheezing. If these symptoms occur especially at night, or are associated with exercise, suspect asthma.

    What triggers an asthma attack?

    House dust, insecticides, cigarette and other smoke, animals with fur, emotional upsets, plant pollen, changes in weather, colds and physical strain.

    These are just a few of the "triggers" that can cause asthma attacks. Different people are sensitive to different triggers. If you have asthma, it is important for you to identify your asthma triggers and to avoid them as far as possible.

    What is asthma?

    As we breathe, air moves in and out of the lungs through branching airways. People with asthma have sensitive airways, which become narrowed as a result of many causes. This makes it difficult for them to breathe.

    The three main factors that cause this narrowing of the airways are:
    The inner lining of the airways becomes red and swollen, the muscle around the airways tighten and extra mucus may be produced.

    Easy Exercise Ideas

    Becoming more active benefits your health, helps you lose weight and improves your body shape

    Start now - make exercise part of your daily routine. At any age, increasing your daily activity, even by a small amount, can make a difference.
    Our bodies are designed to be active and all activity / exercise will develop and firm the muscles of the body. Exercise doesn't have to be a chore. Moderate exercise for half an hour 3 to 5 times a week can bring enormous health benefits. Read on to find ways you can become more active, lose that fat and have some fun… 

    Walking

    Make a determined effort to walk throughout the day. Get off the bus or train a stop or two before your destination and walk the rest of the way; park your car in the furthest space in the car park; walk up and down stairs (no lifts); walk the children to school; walk to the local corner shop for your newspaper or milk, etc.
    15 min moderate walking will burn 52 extra kcal* 


    Housework Can Do the Trick!

    Turn those tiresome chores into healthy positive ones! Turn on the music and clean the windows, hoover, dust and wash up at a brisk pace, and burn off those calories.
    15 min hoovering / dusting will burn 38 extra kcal*

    Get Out In the Garden

    Mowing the lawn, weeding and digging all count.
    30 min weeding will burn 104 extra kcal*

    Clean Your Car

    Time you ran your car through the wash? Why not wash it by hand? It's cheaper, better for the environment and a great form of exercise. Put your back into it and you'll get a better result! 
    30 min moderate car washing will burn 86 extra kcal*

    Play Actively With the Kids / Get Some Friends Together

    How about heading for the park for some football, rounders, or frisbee throwing. Or dusting off the bike for a leisurely ride?
    30 min recreational cycling will burn 90 extra kcal*

    Try A Sport

    Dip into our try a sport section for more information on a variety of exercise - walking, cycling, swimming, skipping, yoga ... and more.


     

    The important thing is to become active so that your heart is pumping blood at a slightly increased rate and you are burning calories in empowering your muscles! Go for it...